We’re here to help you choose between the 2025 Ford Maverick and Honda Ridgeline. After all, both unibody trucks have their own unique appeal! You just need a little more info to help you figure out which belongs in your garage, Ford’s game-changing compact pickup or Honda’s classy midsize model.
Key Takeaways
- Choose the midsize Ridgeline for a slightly stronger performance than the compact Maverick.
- The Maverick delivers the biggest at-the-pump savings, and it’s not even close!
- While the Ridgeline comes standard with a few extra features, the Maverick gives you the most bang for your buck.
- Compared to the Ridgeline, the Maverick saves you thousands of dollars with its low MSRP!
Best Workhorse: 2025 Honda Ridgeline
As a midsize truck, the Ridgeline is stronger than the compact Maverick. If you’re shopping for a unibody, front-wheel-drive truck that handles well around town but also moves a little extra weight, this Honda pickup might be your best bet. Properly equipped, these trucks can tow up to 5,000 pounds or haul up to 1,583 pounds. Under the hood, you’ll find a peppy V6 engine that gives you a little extra horsepower than the Maverick can spare.
2025 Honda Ridgeline Powertrain Options
- 3.5L V6 (280 horsepower, 262 lb-ft of torque)
- Nine-speed automatic transmission
- All-wheel drive
While the Ridgeline has the edge here, the compact Maverick isn’t far behind. Since Ford updated this compact truck for 2025, you can equip both hybrid-powered and EcoBoost models to tow up to 4,000 pounds. And most trim models can tow up to 1,500 pounds — no upgrades necessary. And if you’re shopping for power, you’ll love the Maverick’s optional EcoBoost engine, which delivers nearly as much horsepower as the Ridgeline (and more tow-friendly torque, too)!
2025 Ford Maverick Powertrain Options
- Standard 2.5L hybrid four-cylinder engine (191 hp, 155 lb-ft)
- Optional 2.0L EcoBoost four-cylinder engine (250 hp, 280 lb-ft)
- Continuously variable transmission (with hybrid) or 10-speed automatic transmission (with 2.0L engine)
- XL, XLT, Lariat: front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive
- Lobo, Tremor: all-wheel drive
Everyday Efficiency: 2025 Ford Maverick
Do you spend a lot of time on the road? Efficiency is a good place to start for anyone asking themselves, “How do I choose between the Maverick and Ridgeline?” The Maverick combines strong trucking capabilities with excellent hybrid fuel economy, earning up to 38 mpg combined (42 city/35 highway). The 2025 Honda Ridgeline isn’t nearly as thrifty, however, with maximum EPA ratings of 21 mpg combined (18 city/24 highway).
Comfort & Convenience: It’s a Tie!
Both trucks treat you to roomy comfort and a smooth commute! The more expensive Ridgeline comes standard with a few extra perks, including tri-zone automatic climate control and wireless smartphone charging. However, it’s the Maverick that gives you the best infotainment setup, with a standard 13.2-inch central touchscreen and Ford’s fast-acting SYNC 4 technology.
Each truck is available in a number of different trim models. Moving up the trim hierarchy means more luxury. Both pickups are available with comfort upgrades like heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. Tech upgrades include a 360-degree parking camera and premium sound systems.
Maximum Savings: 2025 Ford Maverick
The gap between these trucks’ MSRPs may leave you with sticker shock. The 2025 Ford Maverick (starting at $28,145*) is an excellent deal, especially compared to the 2025 Honda Ridgeline (from $40,150*).
*Price as of 5/15/25.
Choose the Ford Maverick for punchy power, world-class fuel economy, and an excellent starting price. And with so many features available, the Maverick gives you plenty of good reasons not to spend more on the Ridgeline. Come see why Ford’s compact truck is right for your Midwest adventures — visit us at Lunghamer Ford in Owosso, Michigan!